Earthquake Magnitude Explained: Why a 7 Is So Much Worse Than a 6
Each step up the earthquake magnitude scale means about 32 times more energy released. Here is how earthquakes are measured, why magnitude and shaking differ and how to stay safe.
US
How a Bill Really Becomes Law: Congress Explained in Plain English
Thousands of bills are introduced in every Congress and only a small share become law. Here is each step from introduction to the president's desk, and where bills usually get stuck.
Why Leaves Change Color in the Fall: The Chemistry Behind the Reds, Yellows and Oranges
Fall colors come from pigments that are either hidden all summer or made fresh in autumn. Sunny days and cool nights make the brightest displays. Here is the science of fall foliage.
Hurricane Season Ends November 30: How Hurricanes Form and How Their Strength Is Measured
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. NOAA predicted a below-normal 2026 season. Here is how hurricanes form, how categories work and what makes them deadly.
How the Supreme Court Picks Its Cases, and What Happens Before a Ruling
The Supreme Court began its new term on the first Monday in October. It receives thousands of requests each year but decides only a few dozen cases. Here is how a case gets there.
Government Shutdowns Explained: What Closes, What Stays Open and Who Gets Paid
A shutdown happens when Congress doesn't pass funding on time. The 2025 shutdown lasted 43 days, the longest ever. Here is what closes, what keeps running and how back pay works.
Winter Storm Season: How to Prepare Your Home and Car Before the Power Goes Out
Winter storms can knock out power for days. Here is what to stock now, how to use generators and heaters safely and how long refrigerated food stays safe during an outage.
Why Veterans Day Is Always November 11, and How It Differs From Memorial Day
Veterans Day falls on Wednesday, November 11, 2026. It honors everyone who has served, while Memorial Day honors those who died in service. Here is how the date came to be.
Social Security's 3.6% Raise for 2027: What It Means for Your Check
Social Security benefits rise 3.6% in January 2027, about $75 a month for the average retiree. Here is how the raise is calculated and what can shrink it.
Why Thanksgiving Is Always on the Fourth Thursday of November
Thanksgiving 2026 falls on November 26. The fixed 'fourth Thursday' rule dates back to a 1941 law passed after Franklin D. Roosevelt moved the holiday and split the country.
Clocks Fell Back Again. Why the US Still Changes Time Twice a Year
Daylight saving time ended on November 1, 2026, even though the House passed the Sunshine Protection Act 308-117 in July. Here is why the clocks still change and what would have to happen next.